Arsenal vs Aston Villa tips and predictions: Bet on Gunners to win by one goal margin

This has all the makings of a tricky game post-Champions League duties but having two days of additional rest may be the biggest factor at play.

Arsenal dominated the play against Bayern Munich in a 2-2 draw on Tuesday and although the Gunners may feel hard done by, the visitors were also denied a clear penalty.

Lille were more than a match for Aston Villa on Thursday night and while the English club won the first leg, Bafode Diakate’s late goal means the tie is finely poised.

To our eyes, the Gunners have produced less convincing displays and results over the past month as they’ve navigated a congested fixture list and international duty.

A 0-0 draw with Man City was a positive result and the 2-0 win over Luton was pedestrian, albeit intentionally so. Porto gave them a run for their money and Kai Havertz spared their blushes late on in a 2-1 win against Brentford.

None of this is criticism or to say we think the Villans can spring an upset, but it wouldn’t be a surprise if Mikel Arteta’s side aren't flowing and need to dig in for a result.

The visitors are at a bigger disadvantage meaning they’ll have to double down on defending their box and making life tough for the Gunners.

They’ve been beaten twice in 10 on the road, both in Manchester, and found the net in nine outings.

Despite Arsenal’s success, 12 sides to visit the Emirates this season have scored at least once, with eight goals being decided by one or fewer goals.

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Team news

Jurrien Timber is the only confirmed absentee for Arsenal, although Gabriel Magalhaes was reportedly absent from training on Friday.

Gabriel Jesus and Leandro Trossard came off the bench to good effect in the Champions League, however, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli should keep their place.

Boubacar Kamara, Emi Buendia, Tyrone Mings, Jacob Ramsey, Matty Cash and Clement Lenglet are struggling with injuries.

Douglas Luiz will serve part of his suspension for accumulating 10 yellow cards.

 

Key stats

- Five of the previous eight meetings have been decided by a single goal
- Arsenal have scored two goals in seven of 15 Premier League home matches
- Both teams have scored in nine of 15 matches at the Emirates Stadium
- Aston Villa have scored at least once in 13 of 16 Premier League away matches

 

Suggested bets

Match to be won by a one-goal margin

Arsenal win and over 2.5 goals

Both teams to score